NEW DELHI: It is learned that the Congress wants Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor to contest the assembly polls from Nemom constituency. It has been hinted that such a suggestion was made by Rahul Gandhi during discussions on the candidates list. However, leaders from Kerala have not responded favourably.

Nemom, is the lone seat of the BJP in Kerala and the leadership is of the belief that the Congress’ image facing stiff competition will benefit the party across the state. It is keeping this in mind the high command suggested that a strong candidate is needed in Nemom. There was a proposal to field opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala or senior leader Oommen Chandy in Nemom. Rahul Gandhi suggested the name of Tharoor when discussions on it got delayed.

Rahul pointed that Tharoor contesting from Nemom will benefit the Congress at the national level. Rahul claimed that Tharoor's candidature would send a message that the Congress is facing stiff competition against the BJP. At the same time, Rahul calculates that groupism in Kerala could be curbed to a certain extent.

The two dominant groups in the state Congress have not supported Tharoor's candidature. However, KPCC chief Mullappally Ramachandran has no objection in it. Mullappally had earlier stated that one of the most popular and high profile candidate will be fielded in Nemom and it is assessed that he said this keeping in mind Tharoor. It is heard that A K Antony has also approved Rahul’s proposal. After different opinions arose, the discussions on the candidates progressed leaving behind Nemom. No matter how late, the final list is likely to be announced today.